Entries are open for the 2025 Catholic Care Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art competition and organisers are calling for aspiring and emerging Aboriginal Artists living in Western NSW to submit their work.

With $4000 in prizemoney, the competition is a chance for rural artists to share their works and give an insight into the rich Aboriginal culture and artistry the region has to offer.

CatholicCare Wilcannia Forbes chief executive officer Anne-Marie Mioche said the organisation was pleased to hold the competition for the fourth time.

“Each time we’ve held this competition, we’ve received some truly awesome and exciting entries,” Ms Mioche said.

CatholicCare Wilcannia Forbes chief executive officer Anne-Marie Mioche - Image CatholicCare

“We started the competition in 2019 because we knew there was unrecognised talent in our vast region, and we wanted to showcase these artists.

“In 2023 the competition attracted 14 entries from across our region, and two impressive artworks tied for first place.”

There is $4000 in prize money up for grabs ($2000 first and $1500 second) providing a real opportunity for emerging Aboriginal artists to create and share meaningful artwork that shows the rich Aboriginal culture and artistry in Western NSW.

TO ENTER

•         You must be Aboriginal and living in or have connections to the Wilcannia-Forbes Diocese (and

communities where our services are available).

•         Your artwork must be original and created in the past 12 months.

•         You must have a completed parent/guardian consent section if you are under 18. Entries will

be accepted from children 15 years and over.

•         First, second and third prizes will become the property of CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes.

•          If you wish to submit an artwork larger than 2metres x 2metres please contact [email protected]

•         You must submit your completed entry form, agreeing to the Terms and Conditions with your painting.

The winners will be selected based on aesthetic quality and creative originality and the winning artwork will be displayed at the head office of Wilcannia-Forbes Diocese and be

displayed in branding and promotional materials.

Inaugural prize winner Raymond Thorpe with his artwork Platypus Waterholes - Image CatholicCare

“I always feel excitement at the arrival of new entries, and I know our team members do as well,” said Ms Mioche.

“We love viewing the artworks and learning the story behind them,” she said.

If you require assistance to complete this form or for any questions relating to the competition, please call 1800 067 067 or email [email protected]